1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

[Hoyt79]

What could be causing this problem...everything else works fine, it is on a boat I am looking at purchasing.

 

[T.J.B.]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

Is this an electric shift unit? If so I know that there are issues with the functionality of the shift solenoids. Also the switches in the control go bad as well. I have a 1972 50esl and was worried about getting one because of the non available parts issue so you may want to beware if it is an electric shift parts are scarce.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

What gearlube is in that gearcase? You cannot use the standard "HIVis" mechanical gearcase lube in that unit. It must be what is called Premium Blend, also known as Type C, available at the dealership.

 

[Hoyt79]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

Is this an electric shift unit? If so I know that there are issues with the functionality of the shift solenoids. Also the switches in the control go bad as well. I have a 1972 50esl and was worried about getting one because of the non available parts issue so you may want to beware if it is an electric shift parts are scarce.

Not sure if it is electric shift, going to take a look at boat today, not sure what kinda oil is in the lower unit. My main concern is just wondering if this is the beginning of a larger problem.
The model is: 50173S

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

That 1971 50hp lower unit is a Hydro Electric Shift gearcase and must use the gearlube as I mentioned above in my previous post.

 

[Hoyt79]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

That 1971 50hp lower unit is a Hydro Electric Shift gearcase and must use the gearlube as I mentioned above in my previous post.

Joe, talked with owner and said that they just used your standard run of the mill gear oil...and not type C. I will change out the oil, is there anything to be cautious of that would cause this to occur other than the oil?

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

Change the gearlube first. If that cures the problem, no need to worry about what could be.

 

[trbarret]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

I have a complete 1972 50 hp hydro electric shift that is avaialble for parts, the cylinders are shot, shift box is good and lower unit seals are good if anyone is interested in parts. I know parts are hard to find. TB

 

[F_R]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

If this is a motor you are asking about because you are considering buying it, you may as well know it can be expensive. It might be a wiring fault---fairly cheap. Or it may be a bad shift switch---pretty common and new switches are about $400 if you can find one. Or it could be the gear and clutch dog, and/or the oil pump. Complete lower unit rebuild $$$$$$.

No way for us to diagnose it from here.

 

[Hoyt79]

Re: 1971 50 HP Evinrude slips out of gear while in reverse

Thanks guys...I passed on this boat yesterday